Connecticut residents who have ever been arrested and charged with a criminal offense know that even without a conviction, life after an arrest can be challenging. Whether a misdemeanor or a felony, any criminal activity can haunt a person for a long time.
One of the biggest challenges that people with prior arrests or convictions may face is getting a new job – or even keeping an existing job. When it comes time to fill out a job application or submit a resume, many employers will ask candidates if they have ever been arrested or convicted of a crime. Answering “yes” to either of these questions might put them a peson out of the running for the job before their application or resume is ever really reviewed. Work experience and education may take a back seat to a criminal record.
Now, however, Connecticut residents can get some help from a new law that took effect at the beginning of this new year. Except in certain circumstances, employers are not allowed to ask job candidates about criminal histories on an initial application. This gives people the chance to secure and even complete interviews before discussing arrests or convictions. The goal is to help more people secure employment and move forward in their lives in positive ways after these situations.
Anyone who is arrested in Connecticut might find it helpful to talk with an attorney. This can shed light on many aspects of the law and the defense process.
Source: Connecticut News Junkie, “With A New Year Comes Some New Laws,” Cara Rosner, Dec. 22, 2016
